5 Easy No-Cook Italian Meals for Hot Summer Nights & Poolside Days

Mercato Di Bellina 5 Easy No-Cook Italian Meals for Hot Summer Days & Nights

When the summer heat hits, the last thing you want to do is stand over a burner. That’s why we’re embracing the Italian art of no-cook meals- perfect for pool days, beach picnics, or just staying cool in your own kitchen. These recipes are refreshing, quick to assemble, and bursting with authentic Italian flavor thanks to a few of our favorite pantry staples.

Light, fresh, and full of flavor- with zero time over a hot stove.

Here are 5 no-cook (or barely-cook) Italian dishes to get you through summer deliciously.

1. Mediterranean Pasta Salad

Get the full recipe here →

Make it ahead, chill it down, and take it anywhere- this pasta salad is your summer MVP.

Loaded with sundried tomatoes, olives, cucumbers, and feta, and dressed in our Lemon Infused Olive Oil by ROI, it’s the perfect balance of bright citrus and briny Mediterranean flavors.    

2. Prosciutto, Melon & Balsamic Glaze Skewers

Thread cantaloupe chunks and thin slices of prosciutto onto small skewers or toothpicks. Drizzle generously with Giusti’s Crema Balsamic Glaze for the perfect sweet-and-savory bite. Serve cold for a refreshing and elegant appetizer.

3. Tomato Bruschetta with Garlic & EVOO

Dice ripe summer tomatoes, and mix with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Spoon onto toasted baguette slices or crackers. Top with fresh basil and drizzle with Masserie di Santeramo’s Robust Extra Virgin Olive Oil for an intense fruity finish.

4. Zucchini Ribbons with Parmigiano & Lemon Olive Oil

Use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons of zucchini. Toss with a drizzle of ROI’s Lemon Infused Olive Oil, shaved Parmigiano Reggiano, and a few cracks of black pepper. Chill and serve as a side or light main dish.

5. Cold Pesto Pasta with Dried Cherry Tomatoes

Cook pasta early in the day, chill, then toss with Frantoi Cutrera’s Basil Pesto and a generous spoonful of their Organic Dried Cherry Tomatoes in Olive Oil. Mix in fresh arugula, briny olives, or tender artichoke hearts for extra dimension. Chill and enjoy as a refreshing lunch or an easy dinner al fresco.

No heat. No stress. Just good food.
With a well-stocked pantry, summer meals come together in minutes. Keep cool and eat well all summer long.


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